Specific embodiment
Figure 1A shows the dentistry MRI system 100 of the exemplary embodiment according to this paper.Dentistry MRI system 100 includesOne casing part 102a and second housing portion 102b, which provided main magnet（Not shown）And gradient coil（Not shown）.Main magnet can include two relative poles or have（For example）Annular shape.In order to schematically be illustrated, Tu1AZhongIllustrate only first housing portion 102a and second housing portion 102b, however, complete shell（Not shown）Can have ringShape shape.
Dentistry MRI system 100 also includes supporting the supporting platform 106 of patient 2（As chair or bed）.In addition, dentistry MRI systemSystem 100 includes patient's fixing device with headrest assemblies 126 form, and it includes（For example）Head retainer 127a and 127b,The head 4 of patient 2 can be placed between them, so that the head 4 of patient 2 is maintained at fixing or predetermined position.For example,Can by headrest assemblies 126 are attached to headrest arm 124 and headrest arm 124 is attached to patient support 106 and by group of resting the head onPart 126 is attached to supporting platform 106.
HF coil block 110 can be attached to second housing portion 102b, supporting platform 106 or headrest assemblies 126.In figureIn the example showing, HF coil block 110 includes coil arm 112, includes indicator 115（As light emitting diode (LED)）ImagingOr HF coil 114, and measuring apparatus 116.In addition, in one example, using ball-and-socket joint（Not shown）Or other are suitablePrivot mechanism coil arm 112 is pivotably attached to second housing portion 102b so that coil arm 112 can be moved to byHF coil 114 is positioned at the specific part of patient 2（Such as mouth）Near.Measuring apparatus 116 include angular position measuring device, its surveyAmount（For example）Angle [alpha] and β that coil arm 112 is formed with respect to second housing portion 102b.Angular position measuring device may include circleShape potentiometer, this circular-shaped potentiometer has the resistance proportional to the angle measuring.Measuring apparatus 116 can be with output indicationGo out the signal of the value of the angle [alpha] that coil arm 112 formed with respect to second housing portion 102b and β.In an exemplary embodimentIn, those signals are digital signals, but in other embodiments, they can be simulation, and can be turned by A/D converterChemical conversion digital form.In addition, the length of coil arm 112 can be adjustable, and the measuring apparatus of routine can be in HF lineCircle 114 determines the physical length of coil arm 112 after being moved to desired locations.
Patient body part to be imaged must be positioned in the visual field (FoV) of dentistry MRI system 100.In an exampleIn son, FoV is determined by least three below factor.The magnetic field that first factor includes wherein main magnet be uniformly fixing orThe positioning in presumptive area/space, this is determined by the physical characteristics of main magnet.Second factor includes being produced by gradient coilThe characteristic in magnetic field, this is determined by imaging or records series.3rd factor includes the characteristic of the sensitizing range of HF coil 114,This to be determined by the physical characteristics of HF coil 114 and position or positioning.
Area of interest (ROI) is a part to be imaged in patient 2 body.The position of ROI and patient's to be scannedThe position of a part can be identical, but and nonessential identical.In order to measure in ROI, ROI should be located at dentistry MRIIn the FoV of system 100.Therefore, ROI is known or determines with respect to the position in the magnetic field of main magnet or positioning.At oneIn example, ROI can make ROI be in respect to master by immobilized patients 2 with respect to the position in the magnetic field of main magnet or positioningThe known location in the magnetic field of magnet is determining.This can be by using having mouth guard 122 form being fixed in patient's base 2Patient's fixing device to realize with respect to the fixing described position of main magnet and/or positioning, or by by the head 4 of patientIt is located so that the labial teeth of patient is in by laser element（Not shown）The center of the cross hairs producing realizing, described crossThe center of line is in fixation or precalculated position or positioning with respect to main magnet.
ROI can be by special measurement equipment with respect to the position in the magnetic field of main magnet or positioning（As digital camera unit250）To measure.Alternatively, mouth guard 122 can be moveable, and its position can be used（For example）It is integrated into occlusionSpecial measurement equipment in plate arm 120（Not shown）To determine.Alternatively, the cross hairs being produced by laser element can be determinedPosition becomes to make cross hairs centered on the labial teeth of patient, and the position of laser element is measured.
Exemplary embodiment includes returning the RF micro-coil of RF signal by external RF field when being excited.Can in MRI imageTo see the RF micro-coil as bright spot.RF micro-coil can be located at ROI and sentence the MRI serving as the position indicating ROIThe floating coil of labelling.
In addition, the position of ROI can be determined by carrying out pre-scanning operation.Because carrying out pre-scanning operation is probably to consumeWhen, so in one example, dentistry MRI system 100 does not determine the position of ROI by carrying out prescan.
If HF coil 114 is positioned in specific anatomical structure or at specific anatomical structure, HF coil can be used114 position is determining the position of ROI.The position of HF coil 114 produces the position of anatomical structure（As will be described below thatSample）, and therefore produce the position of ROI.Therefore, the position of anatomical structure does not need by other position detecting device Lai reallyFixed.
Fig. 2A shows the functional diagram of dentistry MRI system 100.The dentistry MRI system 100 of this diagram includes user interface listUnit 200, spectrogrph or sequencer unit 202, image reconstruction unit 204, HF signal amplification unit 206, gradient signal amplify listFirst 208, include at least one transmission HF coil and at least one receives the HF coil unit 210 of HF coil, includes at least threeIt is respectively used to x, y and the gradient coil unit 212 of gradient coil of z coordinate coding, patient 2 can be located in region therein214, and main magnet 216.In one embodiment, sending HF coil and reception HF coil is identical coil.Gradient coilUnit 212, send HF coil and receive HF coil and can be located in main magnet 216, and each coil may include two relativePole.Main magnet 216 has fixing magnetic field, and therefore, the magnetic field of main magnet 216 will not change during imaging sequence.
User interface elements 200 can be used for selection and are saved in storage device（Additional storage 234 as shown in Figure 2 B）In booking situation sequence.User interface elements 200 can also be used for controlling the display of image, and medical professional can be carried out to itOperation is to contribute to carrying out medical diagnosiss.
Fig. 7 shows that dentistry computer tomography (CT) scans common some slice view, and it can be by dentistry MRI systemSystem 100 display.For example, viewing area 700 can be by display unit 228（Or other output units）Display.Viewing area 700 includesUser's controllable is to change the control area 702 of display characteristic.Viewing area 700 include panoramic view 704, volume view 706,Longitudinally（That is, tangent with upper jaw bone ridge）View 708, laterally（That is, perpendicular to upper jaw bone ridge）View 710 and axial view（From upperSide, the section parallel to upper jaw bone ridge plane）712.Each of two dimension slicing shown in Fig. 7 can with respect to anatomical structureThere is predetermined orientation.In one example, processor 222 can make display unit 228 show to be generated by one or more roots of the toothSection in plane, or by the section in the plane wearing mandibular joint generation of patient.
For example, when processor 222 makes display unit 228 show the section in the plane being generated by a root of the tooth, determineThe centrage of root of the tooth, and select plane so that this plane is orthogonal to（Or be tangential on）Upper jaw bone ridge extends, and runs through root of the toothCentrage.When processor 222 makes display unit 228 show the section in the plane being generated by two roots of the tooth,（For example）Pass throughDetermine the centrage of two roots of the tooth and set up a plane between them to determine the plane being generated by two roots of the tooth.For example, whenWhen processor 222 makes display unit 228 show the section in the plane being generated by three roots of the tooth, three different putting down can be generatedFace, thus lead to three different views.
Sequencer unit 202 provides control signal to HF signal amplification unit 206 and gradient signal amplifying unit 208.ControlSignal processed can be used for switching or change the characteristic of the electromagnetic field being produced by HF coil unit 210 and/or gradient coil unit 212,And read for manipulation signal.Sequencer unit 202 also provides timing value for correct switched gradients and HF signal, bothAll coordinated in a predefined manner.The control signal being provided to gradient signal amplifying unit 208 from sequencer unit 202 can be wrappedInclude（For example）The expectation rise time in the magnetic field of the size of expectation magnetic field intensity of specified gradient coil 208 and gradient coil 208（rise time）Data.
The control signal being provided to HF signal amplification unit 206 from sequencer unit 202 may include（For example）Indicating willThe frequency of the persistent period of HF transmission pulse being sent by HF coil unit 210 and intensity and HF transmission pulse and the number of shapeAccording to.The control signal being provided to HF signal amplification unit 206 from sequencer unit 202 can set the ginseng for data acquisitionNumber.For example, control signal may include indicate measured value, the ADC value of expected signal levels, for data buffering value,With one or more parameters reading timing value.Sequencer unit 202 is also responsible for setting the timing value of records series.
Gradient signal amplifying unit 208 and gradient coil unit 212 combine work, by the Three-Dimensional Magnetic on x, y and z directionField gradient is added on magnetic field produced by main magnet 216.Sequencer unit 202 provides bag for gradient signal amplifying unit 208Include the control signal of parameter value, the gradient pulse that described parameter value indicates the expectation size of gradient strength or magnitude, appliesPersistent period, and one or more rates of change of the gradient fields changing during records series.Gradient signal amplifying unit 208Gradient coil unit 212 is made to produce magnetic field based on the parameter value being provided by sequencer 202.
HF signal amplification unit 206 and HF coil unit 210 combine work, with send, receive and measurement radiofrequency signal orHF signal.Sequencer unit 202 provides the control signal including parameter value for HF signal amplification unit 206, and described parameter value refers toIllustrate for the pulse width in records series, pulse shape, pulse duration and pulse frequency.By sequencer unit 202The records series parameter providing to HF signal amplification unit 206 is used for making HF signal produced by HF coil unit 210 to obtainMode for forming the data of certain types of diagnostic image changes.
In general, in MRI sequence, the basic spin in object is by HF pulse excitation.When returning poised state, fromRotation sends the HF radiation being measured to again.The non-limitative example of the type of records series include spin-echo sequence type,Gradin-echo type, ultrashort echo time type, zero echo time type and SWIFT type, these are the skills of this areaKnown to art personnel.The spin-echo sequence type of records series can show to the distortion of field that can increase acquisition timeThe sensitivity of very little.The gradin-echo type of records series can provide shorter acquisition time, but can suffer from moreThe distortion of field and relatively low picture contrast may be shown.The ultrashort echo time type of records series, zero echo timeType and SWIFT type can measure and excite the signal of period so that signal attenuation is very low soon or even after exciting.
The HF signal that HF signal amplification unit 206 is received from HF coil unit 210 is measured, digitized be supplied to figureAs reconfiguration unit 204（By sequencer unit 202）.Image reconstruction unit 204 can be by making an uproar to the HF signal receivingSound filtration treatment is improving picture quality.In addition, image reconstruction unit 204（For example）Can be dashed forward by the color in reverse imageGo out the special characteristic in image.For example, if initial pictures are black white image, image reconstruction unit 204 can make initial picturesIn black portions be shown as white portion, and the white portion in initial pictures can be made to be shown as black portions.Alternatively,The upper area of interest of diagnosis can be projected with different colors.
In one exemplary embodiment, dentistry MRI system 100 also includes at least one computer system 220, such as Fig. 2 BShown in.Computer system 220 includes at least one computer processor 222（As CPU or multiplied unit）.Processor 222 connects to the communications infrastructure 224（As communication bus, bridging bar（cross-over bar）Equipment or network）.Although describing various embodiments according to this exemplary computer system 220 herein, after reading this description, to related neckHow to be realized the present invention and be will become clear from other computer systems and/or framework for the technical staff in domain.
Computer system 220 also includes display interface（Or other output interfaces）226, it forwards and is derived from the communications infrastructure224（Or it is derived from frame buffer（Not shown））Video and graphic, text and other data, to be shown in display unit 228（Or itsHis output unit）On.Processor 222 can make display unit 228 show Fig. 7 based on the type of the jaw diagnostic application selectingShown in one or more of two dimension slicing view.For example, based on having been placed into the user interface screen shown in Fig. 3Check mark in 300 Part I 302 come to select apply, processor 222 can make display unit 228 display Fig. 7 shown inTwo dimension slicing view in one of predetermined or many persons.
Computer system 220 also includes input block 230, and the user of computer system 220 can be with it to computer disposalDevice 222 sends information.For example, input block 230 may include key board unit and/or mouse apparatus or other input equipment.OneIn individual example, display unit 228, input block 230 and computer processor 222 can be collectively forming user circle shown in Fig. 2AFace unit 200（Or only element 228 and 230 forms unit 200）.
For example, in the exemplary embodiment including touch screen, input block 230 and display unit 228 can be combined.For example, in this embodiment, operator's touch sensitive display unit 228 can make corresponding signal send to display from display unit 228Interface 226, those signals can be forwarded to processor, such as processor 222 by it.
Additionally, computer system 220 includes the main storage 232 of preferably random access memory (" RAM "), andAdditional storage 234 can also be included.Additional storage 234 may include（For example）Hard disk drive 236 and/or removable StorageDriver 238（As floppy disk, tape drive, CD drive, flash drive etc.）.Removable Storage driver238 read from removable memory module 240 in a manner known and/or write removable memory module 240.Removable Storage listFirst 240 can be（For example）Floppy disk, tape, CD, flash memory device etc., removable Storage driver 238 is read from or writesEnter wherein.Removable memory module 240 may include the computer with the computer software instructions being stored therein and/or dataUsable storage medium.
In alternative embodiments, additional storage 234 may include storage computer executable program or is loaded meterOther computer-readable mediums of other instructions in calculation machine system 220.Such device may include removable memory module 244 HeInterface 242（As programming box and pod interface, it is similar to those being used together with video game system）；Removable memory corePiece（As EPROM (" EPROM ") or programmable read only memory (" PROM ")）Insert with related memorizerGroove；And allow software data to be sent to other of miscellaneous part of computer system 220 from removable memory module 244 canMobile memory element 244 and interface 242.
Computer system 220 can also include can making software data in computer system 220 and external equipment（Do not showGo out）Between transmission communication interface 246.The example of communication interface 246 includes modem, network interface（As EthernetCard）, COM1（As USB (universal serial bus) (" USB ") port or FireWire®Port）, personal computer memory card internationalAssociation (" PCMCIA ") interface etc..The software data being transmitted by communication interface 246 has the form of signal, and it can beElectronics, electromagnetism, optics or the another type of signal that can be sent by communication interface 246 and/or receive.By communication path248（As channel）There is provided signal to communication interface 246.Communication path 248 carrying signal and can using line or cable, optical fiber,Telephone wire, cellular link, radio frequency (" RF ") link etc. are realizing.
Computer system 220 can also include digital camera unit 250, and it generates and represents by digital camera unit 250 instituteThe data of the image of capture.The data that digital camera unit 250 is generated can be processed by processor 222 and/or is saved inIn additional storage 234.For example, processor 222 can process the data that digital camera unit 250 is generated, to be accurately determinedThe position of the object of digital camera unit 250 imaging.Digital camera unit 250 may include（For example）For by digital camera listUnit 250 connects to the USB interface of the communications infrastructure 224.Digital camera unit 250 can also be included for by digital camera listUnit 250 connects to the wave point of the communications infrastructure 224（As IEEE 802.11 WLAN (LAN) interface or bluetooth connectMouthful）.
Computer system 220 can also include spectrogrph or sequencer unit 252, image reconstruction unit 204, gradient signalAmplifying unit 254, the first transmission unit 256, HF signal amplification unit 258 and the second transmission unit 260.Sequencer unit 252There is provided control signal to gradient signal amplifying unit 254 and HF signal amplification unit 258.
Computer system 220 can also include measuring the measuring apparatus 262 of physiological signal, can be incorporated into MRI machineIn.Such physiological signal can be（For example and be not limited to）Electrocardiogram (ECG) signal or the fortune indicating remporomandibular joint (TMJ)Dynamic signal.
In addition, computer system 220 may include measuring unit.Measuring unit may include（For example）Multiple sensors and canIt is operable to as measuring apparatus 116.For example, by USB interface, measuring unit can be connected to the communications infrastructure 224.CanThe signal being exported by measuring unit is preserved（For example）In memory, such as main storage 232（Fig. 2 B）.
One or more computer programs（Also referred to as computer control logic）It is stored in main storage 232 and/or auxiliaryHelp in memorizer 234.Computer program can be received by communication interface 246.Computer program includes computer executable instructions,For example, when executing described instruction by computer processor 222, computer system 220 is led to execute in described herein and Fig. 4Shown process.Therefore, computer program can control whole computer system 220.
In an exemplary embodiment of this paper, can using removable Storage driver 238, hard disk drive 236 and/Or communication interface 246 software is saved in non-transitorycomputer readable storage medium and is loaded in computer system 220.When control logic is executed by processor 222（Software）When, lead to computer system 220 to execute process as herein described.
In another exemplary embodiment, nextport hardware component NextPort can be used（Such as special IC (" ASIC ")）To realizeFunction as herein described.In view of this specification, realize this hardware configuration to execute function as herein described for association areaTechnical staff for will be apparent from.
Have been described with the computer system 220 of Fig. 2 B, will further describe dentistry MRI system 100 in conjunction with Fig. 2 B now.
Indicate the size of coil arm 112 and HF coil 114（That is, length, height and width）Information can be predeterminedAnd can be saved（For example）In memory, such as additional storage 234（Fig. 2 B）In or be saved in sequential cell 252 and includeMemory cell in.In addition, the technical characteristic of instruction main magnet 216 and/or gradient coil unit 208, size and three-dimensional positionThe information put is saved（For example）In identical memorizer.Computer processor 222 uses and main magnet 216 and/or gradientIt is respectively shown in angle in the above- mentioned information of coil unit 208, coil arm 112 and imaging coil 114 correlation, and instruction Figure 1A and 1BThe information of the value of degree α and β（These values are recorded by measuring apparatus 116）, to generate instruction imaging coil 114 with respect to dentistry MRIThe information of the three-dimensional position in the precalculated position of system 100.
Represent that the value of length of coil arm 112 and the value of angle [alpha] and β can be used as three-dimensional polar.For example, at computerReason device 222 can receive length and angle [alpha] and the β of instruction coil arm 112 by the communications infrastructure 224 from measuring apparatus 116Value information, and use the information to determine imaging coil 114 with respect to coil arm 112 base position（As coil armThe place that 112 longitudinal axis is intersected with the left surface of second housing portion 102b）Position.Then computer processor 222 can makeDetermine HF coil with the information of the position of the intended orientation with respect to dentistry MRI system 100 for the base portion indicating coil arm 112The position of 114 intended orientation with respect to dentistry MRI system 100.
For example, in one embodiment, coil arm 112 has predetermined or fixing length, and indicates coil arm 112The information of length be stored in additional storage 234.In another embodiment, coil arm 112 is included with variable lengthThe telescopic arm of degree.After HF coil 114 is positioned near patient 2, sensor（Not shown）Measuring coil arm 112 currentLength, and would indicate that in this moment the corresponding information of the current length of coil arm 112 is saved in（For example）Main storage 232In.Furthermore it is possible to be followed the tracks of using micro-coil, as mentioned above.
Dentistry MRI system 100 also includes arm 124 of resting the head on.For example, one end of headrest arm 124 is attached to supporting platform 106.The opposite end of headrest arm 124 is attached to headrest assemblies 126 or is in contact with it, and this headrest assemblies 126 includes head retainer 127a-127b.When the forehead of patient keeps contacting with headrest assemblies 126, the head of patient is maintained at fixed bit by headrest assemblies 126Put.Indicate that the information of the three-dimensional position of headrest assemblies 126 can be predetermined and can be saved（For example）In memory, allIn additional storage 234.In addition, the information of the size of instruction headrest assemblies 126 can also be predetermined and also can be protectedDeposit in memory.
In one embodiment, the length of headrest arm 124 is known（That is, predetermined）.Headrest group shown in Fig. 1 CPart 126 may include one or more motors（Not shown）, one or more of its moving-head keeper 127a-127cUntil they contact the head 4 of patient 2（And stabilize it）.Motor generates the position being supplied to computer processor 222Information, this computer processor 222 determines the position of each of head retainer 127a-127c using described positional informationPut.Because the head 4 of patient 2 is positioned between head retainer 127a-127c, head retainer 127a- can be based onThe position of 127c is determining the position of head 4.
The major function of the head retainer 127a-127c of headrest assemblies 126 be the head 4 of patient 2 is fixed on knownOr in predetermined position.In one embodiment, headrest assemblies 126 include the mat of fixed dimension.
In another embodiment, headrest assemblies 126 include the mat of variable dimension, and it can be inflated for deflated with air（For example）To change the thickness of mat.For example, the head 4 of patient 2 can be placed on mat（Or two or more matsBetween）.By means of（One or more）Mat contacts the head 4 of patient 2, can be right（One or more）Mat is inflated or putsGas, until（One or more）Predetermined pressure is obtained in mat.Can use（For example）Conventional pressure transducer（Not shown）Measurement（One or more）Pressure in mat.
Dentistry MRI system 100 also includes mouth guard arm 120.For example, one end of mouth guard arm 120 is attached to supporting platform106（Although for convenience's sake not shown in Figure 1A）.The opposite end of mouth guard arm 120 is removably attached to mouth guard 122.When patient 2 stings downwards on mouth guard 122, the oral area of patient is snapped plywood 122 and is maintained at fixing or predetermined location/positionIn.Indicate that the information of the three-dimensional position of mouth guard 122 can be predetermined and can be saved（For example）In memory, such as auxiliaryHelp in memorizer 234.In addition, the information of the size of instruction mouth guard 122 can be predetermined and be stored in（For example）AuxiliaryHelp in memorizer 234.Because the size of mouth guard arm 120 is known or predetermined, the position of mouth guard 124 can alsoIt is known or predetermined standard.
The major function of mouth guard 122 is by the tooth of patient 2（Not shown）It is fixed in known or predetermined position.StingThe miscellaneous function of plywood 122 can be to position one or more HF coils 114, in one example, can collect this HF coil 114Become in mouth guard 122.The position of position restriction patient's labial teeth of mouth guard 122 or positioning, and patient's lower jaw position orPositioning.Additional storage 234（For example）The precalculated position or fixed that instruction mouth guard 122 is with respect to dentistry MRI machine 100 can be storedThe predetermined information of the position of position.Any datum mark is used as precalculated position or the positioning of dentistry MRI machine 100, as long as all the timeUsing identical datum mark.For example, the initial point of coordinate system can be the geometric center of main magnet 216.
For example, additional storage 234 can store the length of instruction mouth guard arm 124 and in mouth guard arm 124 and theTwo angles being formed between one casing part 102a（Not shown）Information, and the base portion of instruction mouth guard arm 124 is relativelyInformation in the precalculated position of dentistry MRI system 100 or the position of positioning or positioning.Computer processor 222 can use this letterCease and to determine the position of the base portion that mouth guard 126 is with respect to mouth guard arm 124.
Additional storage 234（For example）The position indicating each of multiple anatomical structures or positioning can also be storedInformation, the plurality of anatomical structure has the labial teeth with respect to model patient（Or lower jaw）Precalculated position or positioning.Camera listUnit 250 can be used for measuring labial teeth another anatomic landmark with patient 2 of patient 2（Cheek as patient 2）The distance between.MeterCalculation machine processor 222 can be using measured distance estimations the 3rd anatomical structure（As particular tooth of interest）Position.SeparatelyOutward, additional storage 234 can store the information of the model representing patient 2, and computer processor 222 is estimated specific with this informationAnatomical structure（As particular tooth of interest）Position.
Determining or retrieving instruction mouth guard 122 from memorizer with respect to the intended orientation of dentistry MRI machine 100After the positional information of position, computer processor 222 can use this information to and indicate the information of position of anatomical structureDetermine the positioning of any one intended orientation with respect to dentistry MRI machine 100 or the position in those anatomical structures.
Additional storage 234（For example）The position indicating each of multiple anatomical structures or positioning can also be storedPredetermined information, the plurality of anatomical structure has precalculated position or positioning with respect to patient's forehead.Camera unit 250 can be used forMeasure the size of actual patient forehead, and proportionality coefficient can be determined and be respectively used for changing instruction anatomical locationInformation.For example, if computer processor 222 determines actual patient based on by the view data that camera unit 250 is capturedForehead is less than the forehead of model patient 1.1 times, then computer processor can by the information of instruction anatomical location in proportion1.1 times of reduction.
Alternatively, replace the information of only scaling instruction anatomical location, can be by the size of the anatomical featuress of patientAs the input to biological statistical model, this biometrics model includes the information with regard to predetermined anatomical structures.For example, relevant troubleThe information of the size of the distance between the size of person's forehead, patient's eye and/or patient's lower jaw can be used as to biological statistical modelInput, this biometrics model includes the letter of the distance between one of molar about the labial teeth of patient and/or patientBreath.Computer processor 222 can be in conjunction with biometrics models treated to biological statistical model input, to determine spy to be scannedDetermine the most probable value of the position of anatomical structure.
Determining or retrieving instruction headrest assemblies 126 from memorizer（And therefore, patient's forehead）With respect to dentistryAfter the positional information of the position of the intended orientation of MRI machine 100, computer processor 222 can use this information to and indicateThe information of the position of anatomical structure is predetermined with respect to dentistry MRI machine 100 to determine any one in those anatomical structuresThe positioning of positioning or position.
All above-mentioned positions can be carried out with known algorithm and/or size determines.
Fig. 3 shows the user interface screen 300 being shown by the dentistry MRI system of the exemplary embodiment according to this paper.Can use（For example）Display unit 228 carrys out display screen 300.User interface screen 300 includes Part I 302 and Part II304.
Correspond respectively to the dissimilar multiple applications examining inquiry（As jaw application）Multiple indicators be shown in screenIn the Part I 302 of curtain 300.More particularly it is illustrated that example include in the Part I 302 be shown in screen 300Corresponding to the indicator 306 of dental caries application, the indicator 308 corresponding to periodontal application, the indicator corresponding to head application310, and the indicator 312 of application of dashing forward corresponding to condyle.Dental caries are applied for checking one or more of tooth of patient, itsUsing be suitable to measure hardness of matter（As dentine and enamel）And generate the records series of the respective image with high-contrast.Periodontal applies one or more parts of the lower jaw for checking patient, and it uses and is suitable to measure soft tissue and/or periodontal diseaseAnd generate the records series of the respective image with high-contrast.Head applies of the head for checking patient or manyIndividual part, its using be suitable to measure the part of patients head and generating have between dissimilar tissue well balanced rightRecords series than the respective image of degree.Condyle dashes forward application for checking the condyle of mandible of the patient of remporomandibular joint of patientOne or more parts, it uses the note being suitable to measure mandibular movement and generate the respective image with good temporal resolutionRecord sequence.
The operation corresponding respectively to indicator 306,308,310 and 312 is also show in the Part I 302 of screen 300Person selectable check box 314-320.Each check box can be chosen, to select one of corresponding in application, and can quiltCancel and selecting, cancel selecting this application.Of course, it is possible to by the interface including one or more buttons, pass through touch screenOr another type of user interface（The mouse of input block 230 as shown in Figure 2 B）Come to complete the selection of such application/Cancel and selecting.It is selected or unselected in response to one of check box 314-320, processor（As processor 222）Receive the instruction of application that is selected or cancelling selection.Screen 300 can the user interface elements 200 shown in Fig. 2A showShow.
The Part I 302 of screen 300 can also include region 321, and wherein specific HF coil 114 is identified.For example,Select check box 314 in response to operator to select dental caries to apply, processor 222 can make region 321 display instruct operator to makeWith specific HF coil 114（As being designated as the coil of " 1 "）Message.When operator selects check box 314, processor 222 also may be usedSo that the indicator 115 of specific HF coil 114 brightens（Or change color or change pattern or flicker speed）, to indicate behaviourSpecific HF coil 114 and selected application are used together by author.
Alternatively, it is possible to automatically select application without user mutual.For example, additional storage 234 can store patientHistorical information（Amount as metal charge）, and processor 222 can be selected based on the patient history information being stored multipleOne of jaw application.
When selecting one of application, as described above, the anatomic region corresponding with selected application or ingredientGraphical indicators 322 be displayed in the Part II 304 of screen 300.Figure represent can based on general patient model orThe scanning of the image generating in the prior scans process of early detection, such as X-ray computer tomography (CT), ultrasonic sweepRetouch, the scanning of previous diagnosis image, magnetic resonance image (MRI) (MRI) or magnetic resonance tomography (MRT) scan.For example, when operator makesWhen selecting check box 318 with input block 230, processor 222 is shown in the Part II of screen 300 by making graphical indicatorsTo respond in 304.In this example embodiment, graphical indicators represent for the figure of head zone.Graphical indicators can be for protectingThe illustrative image deposited or（For example）Table with the real image of a part for the patient body of digital camera unit 250 collectionShow.In response to the selection to one of application, processor 222 can receive the feature of the object representing to be checked（For example, patients headSize）With one or more to from storage device（As additional storage 234）The instruction of known exception information.ExampleAs, this information can be by using MRI or adopt other forms（Such as CT and optical surface scanning）The former scanning next life carrying outBecome.
For example, computer processor 222 is usable in the letter generate in the former CT or MRT scanning process of patient's lower jawCease and to determine the position of each tooth.Again for example, additional storage 234 can store the information representing general patient model, andComputer processor 222 can obtain and represent from each tooth of general patient model being saved in additional storage 234The information of position.Again for example, additional storage 234 can store the object representing to be scanned（Tooth or lower jaw as model patient）Model information, and computer processor 222 can determine at least a portion of patient using the model of object to be scanned（As particular tooth）Position with respect to ROI.
The graphical indicators of head zone can be divided into multiple regions.Multiple final elections can also be shown in this areas adjacentFrame, wherein each check box correspond to corresponding in region.Occur in one of check box when operator makes final election accord withWhen, the corresponding region in region is just chosen.Therefore, processor 222 makes selected region with special or with itThe state that his mode highlights（For example with specific color）To be shown, selected to indicate it.It is also directed to be shown inOther check boxes in the part 304 of screen 300 function similar with region execution.
In the exemplary embodiment, if based on inspection before it is known that the certain position of the oral area in this patient for the patient 2In there are dental caries（As cavity or decayed tooth）, then dentistry MRI system 100 can store the type of instruction application（As dental caries application）WithThe data of the positioning of dental caries.In follow-up checking process, the identifier of patient can be input in dentistry MRI system 100, thisDental caries application and the positioning of dental caries are automatically selected, and select one of application and/or to be checked specific without operatorRegion.
For example, the dental caries of commitment are not treated sometimes, but remain its healing（That is, Remineralization）.PredeterminedAfter the time of amount, another time can be carried out and check, to monitor the degree of dental caries healing.
In the exemplary embodiment, HF coil unit 210 includes accepter, one of HF coil 114 of number of different typesA part may be inserted in this accepter.HF coil unit 210 can recognize that the class of the HF coil 114 being currently inserted in accepterType.For example, each HF coil 114 may include memory cell, unique coil identifier that its storage is read by accepter.NoEach of HF coil 114 of same type is used for specific application.When HF coil unit 210 identifies the spy of HF coil 114Determine type（As the type for carrying out the inspection to dental caries）When, HF coil unit 210 sends identification to computer processor 222The instruction of HF coil 114 type going out, computer processor 222 automatically selects application-specific using this instruction（As dental caries shouldWith）, and without user, this application is manually selected by input block 230.
Alternatively, computer processor 222 can provide one group of may answer for detected specific HF coil 114With.For example, if two applications in application can be used together with the HF coil 114 identifying, but for other application,Computer processor 222 can make dialog box show, can be in two being used together with the HF coil 114 identifying by this userSelected between application.
The process of exemplary embodiment according to this paper will now be described.Fig. 4 is when operation MRI system（As dentistry MRI systemSystem 100）Carry out the flow chart 400 of process that can carry out during work up.This process starts in step S402.
In step s 404, at least one imaging or HF coil（As HF coil 114）It is positioned in patient's body to be checkedNear a part for body（As HF coil 114 being placed near patient's oral area by moving coil arm 112）, determine HF coilPosition, and preserve mark HF coil position information.For example, if using the imaging within second housing portion 102bCoil carries out MRI scan, then can omit step S404.
In step S406, by a part for patient body（As one or more teeth, head, lower jaw, remporomandibular jointDeng）It is positioned in MRI system.For example, using the dentistry MRI system 100 shown in Figure 1A, the head 4 of patient can be positioned atBetween head retainer 127a-127c, patient 2 can sting downwards on mouth guard 122, and/or makes her head 4 against headrest groupPart 126 is placed.
When positioning patient 2 in like fashion, the tooth of patient（For example）In certain 3D region or space.Mouth guard122 position can be defined with the position of ROI.For example, ROI can be（System 100）In FoV, this FoV is with main magnetCentered on 216 center.For example, if ROI will include the molar of patient, need the labial teeth of patient（And be therefore engagedPlate 122）It is positioned at the somewhere deviateing main magnet 216 center.Can be in known manner with the intersection point instruction of the line that formed by laserGo out the position of mouth guard 122.Therefore, mouth guard 122 does not need to be included in target area itself.
Additionally, step S406 may include to object to be checked（As one or more teeth）Carry out optical measurement, with essenceReally determine described object with respect to the 3D region occupied by the precalculated position of dentistry MRI system 100.For example, digital cameraUnit 250 gathers one or more images of patients head, and processor 222 to process corresponding view data described to determineObject is with respect to the 3D region occupied by the precalculated position of dentistry MRI system 100.
In the exemplary embodiment, step S406 may include the precalculated position being fixed to visual indicia on object（As suffered fromThe head 4 of person or mouth guard 122）And the view data of labelling is included using digital camera unit 250 collection.Digital camera listUnit 250 is transmitted the view data of collection to computer processor 222 by the communications infrastructure 224.Computer processor 222Determine the absolute position of labelling using view data and algorithm known.Because labelling is predetermined with respect to the relative position of object, and be therefore previously known, so computer processor 222 can determine that the absolute position of object.
In the exemplary embodiment, in the fixed position outside patient being positioned at main magnet 216.For example, will suffer from firstPerson is positioned in supporting platform 106.ROI is known or predetermined with respect to the position of supporting platform 106.Then patient will be supportedSupporting platform 106 be positioned inside main magnet 216.Supporting platform 106 can be predetermined with respect to the position of main magnet 216Or can measured so that ROI is also known or predetermined with respect to the position of main magnet 216.
In step S408, operator is selected by selecting one or more corresponding check boxes 314,316,318,320Select one or more Yu pending work up（One or more）The corresponding pending application of type.In stepIn S408, operator can also select one or more of the Part II 304 of screen 300 area of interest, for example, itsIn response to carry out in the Part I 302 of screen 300（One or more）Select and be displayed in part 304.
In step S410, measure to generate instruction wherein imaging or HF coil（As HF coil 114）With respect to toothThe information of the 3D region residing for the precalculated position of section's MRI system.For example, measuring apparatus 116 measurement angle [alpha] and β, as above instituteState, and processor 222 makes the information of the value of instruction angle [alpha] and β be saved in main storage 232.Processor 222 uses shouldThe information of the size of the instruction coil arm 112 of information and preservation and HF coil 114 indicates HF coil 114 with respect to tooth to generateThe information of the 3D region occupied by the precalculated position of section's MRI system 100.Processor 222 makes generated instruction HF coilThe information of the 3D region occupied by 114 is saved in（For example）In main storage 232.
In exemplary embodiment（Not shown）In, imaging coil is fixed to dentistry MRI system and irremovable.At thisIt is not necessary to measure to the position of imaging coil in embodiment.On the contrary, 3D region instruction wherein imaging coil being locatedPredetermined information be saved in（For example）In additional storage 234.
Step S410 can also be included to imaging coil（As HF coil 114）Position carry out optical measurement.For example, can be byDigital camera unit 250 is arranged on the pre-position in dentistry MRI system 100, and can gather the figure of HF coil 114Picture.Processor 222 can process corresponding view data and determine that HF coil 114 is predetermined with respect to dentistry MRI system 100Position occupied by position or 3D region.Processor 222 makes the generated 3D region occupied by instruction HF coil 114Information be saved in（For example）In main storage 232.
In order to determine the three-dimensional position of HF coil 114, multiple optical markings can be attached to HF coil 114.Camera unit250 data that can generate the two dimensional image representing HF coil 114.Computer processor 222 can process and represent the two of HF coil 114The data of dimension image, and determine the one or more distances between optical markings.Computer processor 222 can be with knownTechnology using determined by distance calculate the three-dimensional position of HF coil 114.
Alternatively, camera unit 250 can be the stereoscopic camera system including two cameras, and wherein each camera generatesRepresent the data of the two dimensional image of HF coil 114.Computer processor 222 can pass through to process with known triangulation techniqueThe three-dimensional position to determine HF coil 114 for the data of the two dimensional image of expression HF coil 114.
Additionally, in step S410, can also measure to generate instruction wherein destination object（As one or more teethTooth）Target area to be imaged or the information of 3D region.For example, digital camera unit 250 can acquisition target one or more figuresPicture, and processor 222 can process corresponding view data to determine described object making a reservation for respect to dentistry MRI system 100Position occupied by position or 3D region.Processor 222 makes the generated target area or three indicating occupied by described objectThe information in dimension region is stored in（For example）In main storage 232.
Alternatively, step S410 may include the generation target area of denoted object or the information of 3D region, and need not be to rightAs measuring.For example, when selected in step S408 dental caries application as examine inquiry type when, processor 222 usesThe instruction mouth guard 122 preserving is with respect to the information of the 3D region occupied by the precalculated position of dentistry MRI system 100 and preservationInstruction one or more anatomical structures desired size（For example, the desired size of mandible）Information determining patientTooth with respect to the 3D region occupied by the precalculated position of dentistry MRI system 100.
In step S412, generate the information representing the one or more visual fields for imaging.In one example, permissibleThe position of the precalculated position based on ROI or measurement and the desired size for the ROI of application-specific automatically generate expression and are used forThe information of the FoV of imaging（Need not be in response to user command）.In other examples, described letter can be generated in response to user commandBreath.
The size of ROI can be the preliminary dimension being used together with the work up type selected in step S408.For example, if selecting dental caries application in a step 408, the size of ROI can make a reservation for cover the tooth of average-size；IfHead application is selected, then the size of ROI can be the preliminary dimension of the head covering average-size in step 408.Can would indicate that pre-The value that phase is used for the preliminary dimension of various interest regions of each type of diagnostic application is saved in additional storage 324.Computer processor 222 can retrieve the particular value of the preliminary dimension representing ROI in step S412.
Can be to the part of patient（As one or more teeth or head）Measure, and can be based on being surveyedThe size bi-directional scaling of this part of patient obtaining represents the information of the desired size of ROI.For example, if recording the head of patientPortion bigger than the head of average-size 10%, then computer processor 222 can be by the chi of the ROI retrieving from additional storage 324Very little scaled 10%, and the information representing visual field is generated using the ROI size scaling up.
The information of expression ROI position can be the predetermined information based on the work up type selecting in step S408.For example, if selecting check box 314 and the check box 344 of user interface screen 300, computer processor in step S408222 can obtain the ROI information being saved in additional storage 234 previously generating in step S412, and the wherein position of ROI makesObtain the particular tooth that ROI includes included general patient in region 332 shown in Fig. 3.
Furthermore it is possible to measure to the part of patient, and the size of this part based on measured patient is pressedProportional zoom represents the information of the position of ROI.For example, it is possible to measure the labial teeth of patient 2 and the face of patient 2 with camera unit 250The distance between predetermined portions of cheek.Computer processor 222 can be estimated to be checked specific using measured distanceTooth（As molar）Position.The position of the ROI based on the work up type selected in step S408 can be adjusted, makeObtain ROI and cover particular tooth to be checked.
Alternatively, step S412 be may include to be generated using the information generating in step S410 and represents ROI positionInformation.For example, once determine the three-dimensional position of HF coil 114 as mentioned above with reference to step S410, just can would indicate that and HFCoil 114 predetermined three-dimensional skew information be added to determined by HF coil 114 position, represent ROI position to generateInformation.
In step S414, select one based on the information of the one or more visual fields of expression generating in step S412Or multiple records series.In one example, records series are at least one HF pulse value and at least one gradient pulse valuePredefined group（It can during diagnostic scan repeatedly）, the time interval value between pulse, the amplitude of waveform, waveformShape value and waveform length value.Records series can be used by very those skilled in the art（For example）MRI system generates,And it is stored in additional storage 234.
In one example, records series can also include the timing value for measuring and reading received HF signal.For example, based on the patient body part that (1) is to be imaged（As tooth or other body parts）Position or positioning, (2) can be passed throughThe visual field that the position of imaging coil or positioning and feature determine, the type of (3) selected application, (4) patient's body to be imagedThe feature of body portion（As this body part is soft tissue, and this body part is bone, and the size of this body part）With aroundThe feature of other body parts of body part to be imaged, and (5) carry out the resolution of the required image of particular diagnosis assessmentRate is generating specific records series.When above-mentioned item (1)-(5) are known or when having determined that, can be without user mutualAutomatically select records series.
For example, very those skilled in the art can generate for various types of dental applications with for patient bodyThe records series of each zones of different, and these records series are saved in additional storage 234.Subsequently, less skillfullyTechnical staff can operate user interface 200, and select dental caries to apply as the pending type examining inquiry, and selectRegion 332 is as region to be scanned.HF coil 114 is being positioned near patient and is measuring it in step S410Afterwards, computer processor 222 determines the position of HF coil 114（And/or position/the size of patients head, the position of mouth guard 122Put the position with headrest assemblies 126）.Then computer processor 222 is from the booking situation sequence being saved in additional storage 234One or more records series to be used are selected in row.Selected using at least one of following message type（One orMultiple）Records series：The selected type examining inquiry, region to be scanned, the position of HF coil 114, patients head position/Size, the position of mouth guard 122, the position of headrest assemblies 126, and the information of instruction FoV（Referring to above-mentioned steps S404-S412）.In some instances, one or more of those information types can be predetermined（Before execution context of methodsPre- preservation）And/or under applicable circumstances, letter can be determined in the context of step S410 and S412 as described aboveOne or more of breath type.
In step S416, dentistry MRI system 100 is using selection in step S414（One or more）Records seriesTo carry out object（As tooth）One or more MRI scan and gathered data, for forming one in known mannerOr multiple diagnostic image.More particularly, excite with measurement signal by based on each records series including in each MRI scanIn parameter（Those parameters as described above）Sent and received by HF and gradient coil.When using multiple records series,Can be carried out continuously multiple examine inquiry, this allows to obtain under multiple resolution and have the object of several types of contrast notSame characteristic.
Described（One or more）Records series are used for gathering diagnostic data.After collecting diagnostic data, computerProcessor 222 processes diagnostic data, to construct diagnostic image.For example, can would indicate that the data of diagnostic image is saved in auxiliary and depositsShow in reservoir 234 and/or with display unit 228.
For example, in response to selecting check box 344 in step S408, processor 222 is based on the inspect-type selecting, selectionRegion, the position of object to be checked and the position of imaging coil automatically generate records series.Because dentistry MRI system 100Automatically select described（One or more）Records series, so do not need operator to have and being related to specific records series and examine with specificThe knowledge of the mutual relation between inquiry.In addition, for example, the technical staff of operation MRI system 100 does not need by user interface listUnit 200 input with described（One or more）The related parameter of records series, this is probably time-consuming process and may need non-Often those skilled in the art.
In step S418, one or more of image of record in step display S416.For example, display unit 228Record in step display S414（One or more）Image, image 600 as shown in Figure 6.The image of display can correspond toExamine inquiry in multiple.Can be based on selected（One or more）The type of work up optimizes the display of image.For example, aobviousStrengthen the information related to selected application in the image showing, and reduce incoherent information, this can help medical professionalism peopleMember is quickly accurately diagnosed.In addition, for dental caries application, the contrast ratio optimizing display unit 228 is so that dental caries existIt is enhanced in shown image.This process terminates in the step s 420.
Fig. 5 shows the exemplary right angle coordinate system 500 that can be used by dentistry MRI system 100.The initial point of coordinate system is permissibleAny point for dentistry MRI system 100.In one exemplary embodiment, main magnet 216 has annular or annular shape,And initial point corresponds to the geometric center of main magnet 216.In this example embodiment, point P1 corresponds at the base portion of measuring apparatus 116Position, point P2 correspond to mouth guard 122 above and center position, and point P3 is corresponding to before headrest assemblies 126Face and the position of center.
In this example embodiment, point P1 has coordinate (43, -27,43), its by centimetre in units of.Of course, it is possible to using anyOther desired units of measurement.In addition, in this example, it is assumed that coil arm 112 has 45 centimetres of length, and in order to illustrateSimplicity, in this example, it is assumed that HF coil 114 is centrally located at the end of coil arm 112, HF coil 114 is in this endIt is attached to coil arm 112.In addition, in this example embodiment, after coil arm 112 is moved to the appropriate location near patient, measurementEquipment 116 generates and indicates respectively that the value of angle [alpha] and β is the data of 60 ° and 45 °.Finally, the simplicity in order to illustrate, in this exampleIn it is assumed that the end of coil arm 112 connects to second housing portion 102b and at this point from second housing portion at point P1102b pivots.
Determine the absolute position at HF coil 114 center, computer processor 222 can first determine that HF coil 114 relativelyIn the relative position of point P1, this point P1 corresponds to the precalculated position at measuring apparatus 116 base portion, and then by HF coil 114Relative position be converted into the absolute position of the initial point that the center of HF coil 114 is with respect to coordinate system 500.HF coil 114 is relativelyRelative position in point P1 can be determined with respect to X, Y of point P1 and Z coordinate by calculating the center of HF coil 114.This canTo be realized with the value of the value of the length of coil arm 112 and angle [alpha] and β.
More specifically, the size of X-coordinate for sin α be multiplied by the length of coil arm 112 (60 ° × 45cm of X=sin=38.971cm), and because HF coil 114 extends in the negative x direction from point P1, result is multiplied by -1.Y-coordinate is taken advantage of for cos αLength (Y=cos60 ° × 45cm=22.5cm) with coil arm 112.Z coordinate is multiplied by the length of coil arm 112 for cos β(Z=cos45 ° × 45cm=38.291cm), and because HF coil 114 extends on negative Z-direction from point P1, knotFruit is multiplied by -1.Therefore, the relative position at the center of HF coil 114 be confirmed as with respect to point P1 (- 38.971,22.500,-38.291).
Then, by the center of HF coil 114, the Coordinate Conversion of the position with respect to point P1 is relative for the center of HF coil 114Absolute coordinate in the initial point of coordinate system 500.This can be relative by the absolute coordinate of point P1 is added to the center of HF coil 114To realize on the coordinate of the position of point P1.Therefore, the absolute position at HF coil 114 center be confirmed as (4.029 ,-4.500,4.709), it is illustrated as point P4 in Figure 5.
In addition, in this example embodiment, additional storage 234 stores the letter representing the coordinate with respect to point P2 for multiple different dentalBreath.Additionally, in this example, it is assumed that processor response is placed in check box 344 in final election symbol receives with respect to includingBefore the mouth guard 122 of the tooth in region 332 shown in Fig. 3, central point（Point P2）Coordinate (2.500, -1.500, -4.500).Can be by the relative coordinates of this tooth being added to the absolute coordinate that this tooth to be determined on the absolute coordinate of point P2.Therefore, this tooth can be confirmed as (2.50, -6.500, -0.500) with respect to the coordinate of coordinate system 500 initial point, and it is in Fig. 5In be illustrated as point P5.
Alternatively, in this example embodiment, additional storage 234 stores the expression coordinate with respect to point P3 for multiple different dentalInformation.In addition, in this example, it is assumed that processor response is just chosen in check box 344 and receives with respect to including in Fig. 3Shown in before headrest assemblies 126 of tooth in region 332, central point（Point P3）Coordinate (2.500, -14.500, -9.500).Can be by the relative coordinates of this tooth being added to the absolute coordinate that this tooth to be determined on the absolute coordinate of point P3.CauseThis, this tooth can be confirmed as (2.50, -6.500, -0.500) with respect to the coordinate of coordinate system 500 initial point, and it is in Figure 5It is shown as point P5.
Only it is worth for illustrative purposes in conjunction with used in the above-mentioned example described in Fig. 5.Dentistry MRI system 100 is simultaneouslyIt is not limited to these values.
In view of this specification, those skilled in the relevant art will be understood that, illustrative aspects as herein described can use separate unitComputer-implemented or realized with the computer system including multiple stage computers, wherein every computer control logic program withExecute various functions mentioned above.
Each embodiment mentioned above presents by way of example and not by way of limitation.To association areaBe evident that for technical staff, can enter in form and details without departing from the spirit and scope of the present inventionThe various changes of row（As different hardware, communication protocol etc.）.Therefore, the present invention should not be restricted by any of above exemplary enforcementThe restriction of example, but it should to limit according only to claims below and its equivalent.
Described above has included in MRI system carrying out in the context of exemplary embodiment of transmitting and receiving unitDescription.However, the disclosure and invention are not limited solely to that structure.In fact, providing and the routine including transmitting and receiving unitMRI device combines the dentistry MRI device of work also within the scope of the present invention.In view of the disclosure, those skilled in the art willKnow how to adjust system architecture and above-mentioned（One or more）Each step of method（If any）, so that by computerSystem, imaging coil assembly and/or digital camera unit are docked to the MRI device of routine, thus realizing similar function.
Moreover, it will be appreciated that the accompanying drawing projecting function described herein presents as illustrative example.The framework of the present inventionBe enough flexibly with configurable so that can be used in the mode different with mode to that indicated in the drawings（And manipulation）It.
Additionally, exemplary embodiment as herein described is not limited to dentistry MRI system.Exemplary embodiment as herein describedCan be used for carrying out the work up of other anatomic regions.Although additionally, describing operator in this context to execute this paperIn process some functions, it is to be understood that, in other examples, can without operator input and completely automatically executeDescribed process.
In addition, the purpose of appended specification digest is to allow U.S.Patent ＆ Trademark Office and general public, particularly not yet doneThe scientist, engineer and the doctor that know the association area of patent or law term and/or wording pass through the quick determination of rough inspectionThe essence of techniques disclosed herein theme and key element.Specification digest is not intended to by any way the scope of the present invention be enteredRow limits.